Have you decided an electric heat pump is right for your home? Our guide explains what to consider and do when purchasing and installing an electric heat pump.
Electric heat pumps guide
How to buy and install an electric heat pump.
Step-by-step guide
Before you start looking for a heat pump, it’s helpful to collect basic information about your home. This way, you can choose the right electric heat pump to suit your needs. Your contractor will also likely need these details.
We’ve listed some questions to help you gather important information.
Property size and type
- What type of home do you own (e.g. detached house, townhouse, semi-detached, etc.)?
- How many square feet is your home?
- If applicable, how large is your property?
Current heating and cooling system
- How do you currently heat your home (e.g. furnace, boiler, electric radiators, wood, etc.)?
- Does your home have a central duct system with air vents, water or steam radiators, or something else (e.g. under-floor heating)?
Current electrical panel
- Is your electrical panel ready for a new heating system?
Some people installing heat pumps may need to update their electrical panel. This is most common if your home is larger or not well insulated. The amperage (amps) of your panel should be printed near or on the main circuit breaker. Most homes have 100 to 200 amps.
Do you need to upgrade your electrical service? Learn more about our service connections process and how to make a request
There are different electric heat pumps available that suit different budgets as well as different heating and cooling needs. There are two main types of electric heat pumps to choose from — air source and ground source. These electric heat pumps can also be installed in different ways (e.g. ductless, central ducted and hybrid system).
Your contractor may be able to help suggest the right electric heat pump for your home.
When purchasing and installing an electric heat pump, it’s important to think about upfront and long-term costs. Over time, you may be able to save on your energy expenses by switching to a heat pump. The exact savings will differ depending on your household.
The cost of an electric heat pump depends on the type of system you choose. However, most electric heat pumps typically cost between $6,000 and $14,000 to purchase and install.
Learn more about the costs of electric heat pumps
Is an electric heat pump right for you? Use our heat pump calculator to find out if this system is the right fit for your style of home.
You may be eligible for a government incentive program to help make the costs of an electric heat pump purchase and installation more affordable.
These programs may also take some time to complete. They involve an initial home audit or assessment before you can install your electric heat pump. However, this process can help you choose the right size electric heat pump for your home.
Contact a licensed contractor to help purchase and install your electric heat pump.
You can find one from:
- A list that was made and vetted by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada for reliably installing heat pumps
- The Better Business Bureau
The contractor may perform a site inspection before recommending an electric heat pump model. If you haven’t received an energy audit through one of the government programs, consider asking your contractor to perform a heat-loss calculation of your home. This is a measurement of your home’s current insulation, which can help you get the most efficient electric heat pump system for your needs.
Tip: It’s also important to get multiple quotes from different contractors to make sure you’re working with a contractor you’re comfortable with and that meets your budget.